Pioneer \Pi`o*neer"\, n. [F. pionier, orig., a foot soldier, OF. peonier, fr. OF. peon a foot soldier, F. pion. See Pawn in chess.]

1. (Mil.) A soldier detailed or employed to form roads, dig trenches, and make bridges, as an army advances.

2. One who goes before, as into the wilderness, preparing the way for others to follow; as, pioneers of civilization; pioneers of reform.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Pioneer \Pi`o*neer"\, v. t. & i. [imp. & p. p. Pioneered; p. pr. & vb. n. Pioneering.]

To go before, and prepare or open a way for; to act as pioneer.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)